TOYO ITO’S TAKE ON THE TOKYO TOILET

Japan is widely known for its innovative and thoughtful approaches to hospitality culture and sanitation methods, with facilities that many countries have yet to implement in their own communities. As such, The Tokyo Toilet project involves the redesign of public toilets in 17 locations throughout Shibuya to instill the public with a new and unique experience in the ordinary. The project was organised by the Nippon Foundation, a non for profit organisation hoping to see upgrades and innovation in the area.

Ito is the latest architect in a string of designers - including Tadaio Ando and Tomohito Ushiro - to construct their own contributions to the project. As a Pritzker Architecture Prize winner, Ito’s design takes shape in three cylinder blocks that are adorned with a dome roof to form a mushroom-like structure. The structures mimic the surrounding forest of the Yoyogi Hachimangu shrine.

The design comes with the intention to evoke a sense of calm and welcoming to those wanting to use the facility, with Ito stating his reluctance to use public toilets as a man.

"Therefore, this time, I would like to try a casual design that can be used calmly and with peace of mind," he says.

The facility comes with a dome for men, women and people with disabilities, Ito made these changes to ensure the site is a safe space for all, particularly women.

"I hope that the Yoyogi-Hachiman public toilet installed this time, will be a toilet that gives women a sense of security that can be used even at night,” he explains. 

The red, white, and pink tiles are lit up during the day as the raised roofs of the structures allow natural light in. The upgraded facilities are in full use, and ready for visitors to enjoy.

Images via Dezeen